Agenda - Economic Development Authority - 04/13/1999

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Case #1: Review and Recommend Adoption of 1999 Economic Development Authority Operating Budget City Administrator Norman requested this case be tabled until Economic Development Director Sherman returns from an errand. Case #2: Review the Proposed Economic Development Section of the Comprehensive Plan Community Development Assistant Walther reported that Hoisington Koegler Group prepared a draft Economic Development section for the proposed Comprehensive Plan based on public input, Economic Development Commission meetings of 1998, City staff input, and some of their own recommendations. Mr. Walther outlined the major changes in the Policies section. Member Haas Steffen inquired whether the word "region" was defined anywhere in the Comprehensive Plan. She was concerned there might be confusion over whether its usage meant Anoka County, the seven-county metro area, or whatever. Ms. Haas Steffen mentioned an article published in the Anoka Union that was very critical of the low-paying jobs in the area, and she stated the City should pay close attention to the wages of jobs being created when companies apply for Tax Increment Financing (TIF). She also suggested being mindful using TIF to put up tenant buildings as we could end up with empty buildings. Member Hardin asked about the concept for the town center. Community Development Director Sherman explained that there was no specific site designated. Although she didn't feel there ever would be a "downtown," the Plan has a "mixed use" area providing places for people to gather. Member Hardin inquired about removing the town center site from Ramsey Boulevard. Ms. Sherman stated that the Planning Commission reduced the amount of "mixed use" land, designating a portion of the land "quasi-public." She noted that the land north of Sunwood Drive would be transitional residential. Member Hardin inquired how many acres are to be left "mixed use," and Ms. Sherman replied that the consultants have been asked to come back with that information when the draft goes before the Planning Commission, with a pubic hearing, on March 16, 1999. Member Hardin stated that the larger the "mixed use" area, the more options or more control over that land for the property owners. Member Haas Steffen stated the City should keep as much flexibility as they can with the Plan. The school option involves anywhere from 26 to 80 acres~ ghe discussed State Capital attempts to reduce large bonding, and also the possibility of involvement from the Elk River and Anoka- Hennepin School Districts. Economic Development Authority/February 23, 1999 Page 2 of 5